Labour's questioning why CERA staff went on a $25,000 trade mission to India and Sri Lanka.

Two staff members were invited by the Minister for Primary Industries to join the six-day mission in November - to build overseas links for Christchurch.

Figures released to Newstalk ZB show the two spent more than $18,000 on airfares and $3500 on accommodation.

Labour's Canterbury Earthquake Recovery spokesperson Ruth Dyson says it's completely wrong.

"Unfortunately we have thrown good money after bad, we could've looked for an appropriate person to put their hand up for businesses overseas to come and invest in Christchurch."

"This is your money being spent, taxpayers money. The public have a right to know what was expected of people on this trip, what relationships were built, and what we've seen in terms of improved business opportunities and investment in this city."

"I don't think we got anything out of that money."